Motorist has ‘poor record’ for insurance offences

Ryan Mulgrew (27), tiler, of Lake View Cottages, was also given a three-month suspended jail sentence for driving without insurance.

Mulgrew was fined a total of £300 with a £15 offender levy for taking a vehicle without authority and failing to display ‘L’ plates.

Imposing the penalties, District Judge Michael Ranaghan said Mulgrew has a “poor record” for insurance offences which must be brought home to him.

The court heard the offences came to light on February 25, 2018, when the defendant was stopped at a vehicle checkpoint on the Battery Road, Ardboe.

Prosecution counsel told the court that Mulgrew was taken to Omagh custody suite after he failed a preliminary breath test.

She said he provided a specimen which showed an alcohol reading of 67mgs in breath.

The lawyer added that Mulgrew admitted having no insurance and told police he took the vehicle from his partner without her permission.

A defence lawyer stressed the offences took place took place in 2018 and the defendant has been somewhat prejudiced by the delay in the case.

He pointed out that Mulgrew has four dependants and pleaded with the court to deal with him as leniently as possible.